New York, Apr 16 : Brit supermodel Naomi Campbell wanted to do her bit when she offered her blood at the HemoRio medical centre in Brazil - only to have officials turn her away.

Campbell, who had flown Apr 14 night to Brazil, had turned up at the centre to participate in a blood drive to fight a dengue fever epidemic, but officials turned her away due to medical reasons.

"I have to help Brazil and will donate blood," New York Daily News quoted her as saying in Sao Paulo. However, the 37-year-old's wishes were not fulfilled, as due to the surgery she had in February to remove a cyst, she was not permitted to donate blood.

Not letting her inability to donate blood stop her fight for the cause, she will be appearing at a blood centre to raise awareness of the epidemic, which has so far infected 55,000 people, and killed 67.

It is obvious that the supermodel loves Brazil, as she often visits the country. She has been given an invitation by Rio Mayor Cesar Maia to be a goodwill ambassador for the city.

ANI